Correspondent
IMPHAL, JUN 1 (NPN): United Naga Council (UNC) on Monday cancelled the proposed release of 14 Kuki detainees following widespread objections and protests across Naga-dominated areas of Manipur.
In a brief statement, UNC said the release, scheduled for 2 p.m. on June 1, was called off after considering the sentiments of the Naga public. The detainees, reportedly in the custody of the Naga Village Guard– Northern Command, were to be released at Karong in Senapati district.
The decision was withdrawn at the eleventh hour amid strong opposition from Naga CSOs and members of the public, who maintained that the whereabouts and condition of six missing Naga civilians allegedly held by Kuki armed groups must first be established. Protests were held in several Naga-inhabited areas, including Kanglatombi in Kangpokpi district, where demonstrators opposed the move and demanded the safe release of the six missing civilians. Sources said UNC subsequently convened a meeting with Naga civil society organisations, youth bodies and student groups at Senapati district headquarters.
Representatives reportedly objected to the proposed release and insisted that the condition and whereabouts of the six missing Nagas be ascertained before any decision on the Kuki detainees. Following deliberations, stakeholders resolved that none of the 14 detainees would be released for the time being.
Earlier, UNC had announced its intention to facilitate the release after consultations with stakeholders and appeals from church organisations, tribal bodies and CSOs. It also cited assurances reportedly given by Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Nagaland chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio that the Home ministry would trace the abducted civilians, identify those responsible and ensure legal action.
The council had further referred to appeals by Manipur government and other leaders, including NPP president Conrad K. Sangma, seeking the detainees’ release on humanitarian grounds.
UNC reiterated its demand for the immediate and safe return of the six missing Naga civilians and said it would continue to pursue the matter with the Home Ministry and Manipur government until the abducted persons were traced and those responsible brought to justice.